Jordans await word on charges in medical marijuana case

Robert and Cathy Jordan expect to find out this week whether they will be charged for possessing or growing marijuana at their home in northern Manatee County.

The Jordan's home in Parrish was raided late in February by Manatee County Sheriff's deputies, who confiscated 23 marijuana plants.

The State Attorney's Office has been reviewing the case for possible charges.

Cathy Jordan has used marijuana for years to treat the symptoms of her Lou Gehrig's disease. She also is president of the Florida Cannabis Action Network, which has been lobbying for the legalization of medical marijuana.

Just days before the police action at their home, the Jordans met with legislative Democrats, who agreed to back a 138-page bill called the Cathy Jordan Medical Cannabis Act. Sponsored by Rep. Katie Edwards, D-Plantation, and Sen. Jeff Clemens, D-Lake Worth, the measure marks the first time in at least 30 years that a bill to legalize the drug has been filed in Florida. If passed, Florida would become the 19th state and the first in the South to sanction marijuana for medical reasons.

"I have to get this bill passed or I'm breaking the law," Jordan said. "Anybody who loves their wife, what are they going to do?"

Cathy Jordan was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease in 1986, and has survived years longer than most people with the affliction. The couple says marijuana helps Cathy Jordan manage the twitching and muscle weakness brought on by the disease. Most patients live only three to five years after the first onset of symptoms.

Since the raid, the Jordans have spent more time in Tallahassee lobbying for the legalization bill.

Robert Jordan said they have not been able to raise money for their cause.

But now well-known, Orlando-based trial lawyer John Morgan is planning to lead a campaign to gather enough valid signatures — 60 percent of Florida voters — to get a medical marijuana measure on the ballot, a proposal that can be very costly.

While a ballot initiative could be successful, Jordan said he and his wife cannot wait until 2014.